Feline Leukemia Virus is an infectious disease that is common in cats, especially those who are very young, or already suffering from an illness that has lowered their immune system.
The virus is easily spread through saliva, occurring through a bite wound or mutual grooming. One should exercise caution when letting your cat outside where possible infected cats may reside. Kittens born to an infected mother will also contract the disease. The more a cat is exposed to an infected feline, the higher the odds of contracting the disease.
FeLV can lower your cat’s immune system and make him or her more susceptible to other infections, and various blood disorders. It is the number one cause of cancer in felines. Even every day bacteria that would normally not affect a healthy cat can make an infected cat prone to illness.
It is important that all cats and kittens be tested at least once and again if any new cats are introduced into the household. If your cat enjoys the great outdoors, or if your cat has been in a fight, Fox Hill Veterinary Clinic suggests the best way to protect your feline friend is to vaccinate on a regular basis.